It would not be Cannes without the savage critics, the howling press pack and the film-mad fans.
The first victim at the opening of the 12-day feeding frenzy was Grace Of Monaco, the biopic starring Nicole Kidman in the titular role and Tim Roth as Prince Rainier. You can judge for yourself from the trailer.
Doubtless there will be more media mauling to come as 19 directors compete for the prestigious Palme d'Or award and dozens more compete for the limelight on the Croisette.
But what we really want to see is who wore what on the red carpet. So we're keeping track with this red carpet watch which will be updated regularly with the fashion wins and flops of the film season. Check back for regular updates.